TV on the Radio return with new album, “Seeds”

Indie music seems to be growing in popularity more each day. One of the genre’s veteran acts, TV on the Radio, released its fifth studio album, “Seeds” late last month.

The 12-track album is full of catchy beats and pop-flowing hooks, with no track less than three minutes in length. “Seeds” is the band’s first album since the death of bassist Gerard Smith three years ago.

The opening track, “Quartz,” sets the unusual sound for the rest of the album. “Quartz” begins with a continuous, solid beat, followed by vocalist Tunde Adebimpe’s distinct, deep voice. The album’s first line, “How much do I love you? How hard must we try to set into motion a love divine?” attracts listeners instantly.

The next track, “Careful You,” follows “Quartz” with another grabbing melody, making it impossible to listen without swaying to the beat. The album’s single, “Happy Idiot,” is track four and the most upbeat song on the album. It has a lively chorus that you’ll find yourself singing after the first couple of listens.

“Ride,” hitting about 6 1/2 minutes, is probably the least intriguing song on the album. It has an unnecessary long introduction, where Adebimpe finally begins to sing after two minutes. Unlike the other songs though, “Ride” takes on more of a rock sound, similar to some songs by Young the Giant.

The final song and title track is unexpectedly slow compared to most of the other songs on the album. Adebimpe takes a different approach, with his voice significantly slower. The song ends the album with a groove to remember, leaving listeners itching for something more.

Although “Seeds” isn’t exactly ground breaking, it definitely offers some tunes worth listening to. Compared to other records, it is definitely their most pop-sounding, yet still holding an indie tone. The lyrics are refreshing and hold listeners’ interest with 12 lengthy songs.

“Seeds” offers an interesting track list that would make Smith proud. It is impressive that an indie band like TVOTR has been around for 13 years, and still has the ability to pull off such a quality album after a semi-hiatus. Music lovers who enjoy Two Door Cinema Club, Walk The Moon and The Naked and Famous should give “Seeds” a listen. After checking out a few songs, expect TVOTR’s lines to be ringing in your head.